tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-158259292017-05-03T02:37:36.335-05:00Life on the farmSeeking joy in the chaos of everyday life.Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.comBlogger248125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-89791075774524748342015-06-06T21:23:00.000-05:002015-06-06T21:23:04.081-05:00A new home....I've had some issues with this blog and getting signed in, etc., so I have created a new blog home. &nbsp;Please join me for Life on a Dirt Road over at WordPress.<br /><br /><a href="https://sharminj.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Find me here.</a>&nbsp; I hope to see you soon.Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-1203995942835272962014-11-10T19:55:00.000-06:002014-11-10T19:55:07.124-06:00Just a few more days...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">….until the 4th annual Marvin Newton Classic!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XDNTBLQh5w8/VGFnKK-9PdI/AAAAAAAABI4/wLM9fUTlHQQ/s1600/ClassicShirt14take2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XDNTBLQh5w8/VGFnKK-9PdI/AAAAAAAABI4/wLM9fUTlHQQ/s320/ClassicShirt14take2.gif" width="256" /></a></div><br />When the Newton family began this journey 4 years ago, our goal was to provide scholarships for student athletes who participated in the classic. &nbsp;The first year was a little discouraging, and honestly, I was ready to quit. &nbsp;We were exhausted, and didn't make as much money as we had hoped, but we decided to give it another year. &nbsp;Oh, and the best part, we were able to award 4 $500 scholarships.<br /><br />The second year was better, we knew a little more about what we were doing and were able to pick up a few sponsors to help offset the cost of concession stand food and t-shirt printing. &nbsp;We also had more money at the end and presented 6 $500 scholarships. &nbsp;We felt much better about things, too, and felt like we were honoring Dad's memory.<br /><br />Last year was awesome! &nbsp;We had a great guy named Scott volunteer his day and his vocal chords to do all the announcing of teams and sponsors throughout the day. &nbsp;We had more teams, lots more fans, and ended up with enough for 9, yes N-I-N-E $500 scholarships! <br /><br />This year promises to be even better. &nbsp;We have 7 games, and cool new t-shirt in the works, and we're excited to get this thing going. &nbsp; I'm anxious to see how many scholarships we will have this year. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6Dq-VKsFL1o/VGFqhmYNj0I/AAAAAAAABJE/j8N2b5gyWng/s1600/ShirtBack14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6Dq-VKsFL1o/VGFqhmYNj0I/AAAAAAAABJE/j8N2b5gyWng/s320/ShirtBack14.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, come on out to the Viola High School gym on Friday, November 28th (Black Friday), and enjoy a day of some great high school basketball! &nbsp;Here's the schedule:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">11:00 am &nbsp;- Viola &nbsp;vs. &nbsp;Salem &nbsp;- Boys</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">12:25 pm &nbsp;- ICC &nbsp;vs. &nbsp;Cedar Ridge &nbsp;-Boys</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1: 30 pm &nbsp;- ICC vs. &nbsp;Gainesville, MO - Girls</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2:45 pm &nbsp; - Valley Springs vs. Gainesville, MO - Boys</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4:00 pm &nbsp; - Flippin vs. Salem &nbsp;- Girls</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5:15 pm &nbsp; - Flippin &nbsp;vs. Rose Bud &nbsp;- Boys</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">6:30 pm &nbsp; - Viola vs. Bakersfield &nbsp;- Girls</div><br />Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-85910707064506620902014-06-23T23:15:00.004-05:002014-06-23T23:15:52.121-05:00Today my baby is 10 years old...Time has whooshed by at an astonishing speed. &nbsp;He's in double digits now! (he's so happy, too.)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fEQ7jU1_UuA/U6j0_aGtSKI/AAAAAAAABHk/rmY_de-jg24/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fEQ7jU1_UuA/U6j0_aGtSKI/AAAAAAAABHk/rmY_de-jg24/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by my sis-in-law, Carla Jennings</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As you can imagine, the week has been filled with the discussion of birthday gifts. &nbsp;His recurrent theme is anything St. Louis Cardinals related, and was thrilled to find his uncles, Gary &amp; Lance, and Aunt Lisa had sent Amazon gift codes…which he promptly redeemed for St Louis Cardinals memorabilia and a Matt Holliday (Cardinals left fielder &amp; Logan's favorite player) bobble-head. &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Maybe I'm just feeling old, or tired, or just….blah. &nbsp;But on my way home from the in-service (where I spent my day learning how to integrate Common Core into the Art classroom) today, I was thinking about the best gift I could give him….me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've spent so much time thinking of the things he would love most for his birthday, &nbsp;but what joy would he get without me? &nbsp;(yes, he's a mamma's boy, deal with it). &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For some time I've been saying I need to get off my rear and get back into better health. &nbsp;This week I've really been hard on myself. &nbsp;I don't want to be the fat mom…the one who has no energy because she's too heavy to move. &nbsp;There was a time when I was in pretty good shape. &nbsp;I was somewhat athletic and really enjoyed physical activities. &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now I can't hang. &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's time to stop talking and start doing. &nbsp;(sounds suspiciously like a Lowe's or Home Depot commercial) &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's time to get the extra weight off and get back to a more active life. &nbsp;I'm 47… and I'm not getting any younger!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So here's the plan. &nbsp;I ordered this little gizmo. &nbsp;The FitBit. &nbsp;It's supposed to help me track my fitness (or lack thereof), and give some encouragement to stay on track. (trust me, I need all the help I can get!) &nbsp;It's also supposed to track sleep (or lack thereof), and maybe, just maybe, my sleep patterns will improve. &nbsp;I'm willing to try.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-elAJy6Apw0M/U6j1AWO_mPI/AAAAAAAABHo/IcAfxmpnxCY/s1600/photo-17.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-elAJy6Apw0M/U6j1AWO_mPI/AAAAAAAABHo/IcAfxmpnxCY/s1600/photo-17.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FitBit is not assisting or providing any compensation whatsoever. &nbsp;In fact, the FitBit people know I exist only because I created a free profile to set up this little gadget. &nbsp;All opinions will be my own…and if I'm nursing sore muscles, &nbsp;my opinion may be less rosy than other times.<br /></td></tr></tbody></table>So, I'm off again on another fitness plan. &nbsp;I have changed our diet and I do try to incorporate more fresh produce and lean protein….and less sweet and gooey stuff. &nbsp;(okay, confessions are good for the soul…I just polished off a bowl of ice cream with caramel sauce, but it was kind of like the last hurrah before I really get serious)<div><br /></div><div>Pray for me. &nbsp;I'm going to need it. &nbsp;It is my desire to be a better, more involved mom…a healthy mom. &nbsp;Someone who isn't tired all the time and has energy to work in the church, and give of myself. &nbsp;(more on that later)</div><div><br /></div><div>My alarm is set for early in the morning. &nbsp;I'm planning to get up and walk, just to get moving. &nbsp;Morning is the most beautiful time of day here on the farm, and it's always amazing to see God's handiwork bathed in warm, yellow light. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>I would try to jog a little, but I'm afraid this would be me…..I'm not kidding. &nbsp;I'm about as fast as the little slug dude from Monsters University…..you've got to watch this little clip&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJ84F_3Xif8&amp;feature=kp" target="_blank">Running Slug</a>, I really think I look like this when I try to run….at least he doesn't give up.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jEUXnRVuPl8/U6j7B5w5E7I/AAAAAAAABH8/A01tBqoJ008/s1600/Slug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jEUXnRVuPl8/U6j7B5w5E7I/AAAAAAAABH8/A01tBqoJ008/s1600/Slug.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-8765339008708064062014-06-01T22:41:00.000-05:002014-06-01T22:41:12.460-05:00When you're feeling like you aren't important….<span style="font-family: Verdana;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><br /></b></span></i></span> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings></xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> 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gte mso 10]><style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style><![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. &nbsp;-Luke 12:27</b></span></i></span><!--EndFragment--> <br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;ＭＳ 明朝&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AOCyJzQ9Q94/U4vuqs-xCRI/AAAAAAAABGY/r0uKWLQnf3U/s1600/OrangeLilies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AOCyJzQ9Q94/U4vuqs-xCRI/AAAAAAAABGY/r0uKWLQnf3U/s1600/OrangeLilies.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XFDmx7CA3kA/U4vv_FKL_MI/AAAAAAAABGo/D4NiOpkXSCE/s1600/Lilies_storybook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XFDmx7CA3kA/U4vv_FKL_MI/AAAAAAAABGo/D4NiOpkXSCE/s1600/Lilies_storybook.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OXSag42ZPMs/U4vvkjjHYwI/AAAAAAAABGg/thstjTeZLW0/s1600/Yellowlily.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OXSag42ZPMs/U4vvkjjHYwI/AAAAAAAABGg/thstjTeZLW0/s1600/Yellowlily.gif" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All 3 of these photos I took in our yard. &nbsp;I love lilies, and have several plants that have yet to bloom. &nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;ＭＳ 明朝&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;ＭＳ 明朝&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;">I love lilies, so much so, they were one of the flowers we used in our wedding. I don't know what draws me to them. They aren't fussy, the color is so vibrant, and they open themselves completely to soak in the sun and rain. &nbsp;Maybe we should strive to be more like lilies, don't fuss about adding adornments, live life so vibrant that we shine from within, and open ourselves so that we may soak in the living water and light of Jesus. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;ＭＳ 明朝&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;ＭＳ 明朝&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;">Each time I look at lilies I smile because I remember His words in the New Testament, both in Luke and in Matthew, and am reminded that God gives us something as beautiful as lilies, yet we are so much more beautiful and important to him. &nbsp;Thank you, Lord, for such beautiful reminders.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;ＭＳ 明朝&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;"><br /></span><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span class="text Matt-6-28" id="en-NKJV-23311" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;">&nbsp;</span><span class="woj">“So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin;</span>&nbsp;</span><span class="text Matt-6-29" id="en-NKJV-23312" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;">&nbsp;</span><span class="woj">and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.</span>&nbsp;</span><span class="text Matt-6-30" id="en-NKJV-23313" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;">&nbsp;</span><span class="woj">Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven,&nbsp;will He&nbsp;not much more&nbsp;clothe&nbsp;you, O you of little faith? - Matthew 6:28-30</span></span></b></span></i>Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-36100589826753644222014-05-28T14:54:00.000-05:002014-05-28T14:54:35.365-05:00Don't be fooled...….things aren't always as they seem.<br /><br />Like this little clip. &nbsp;Have you seen this?<br /><br /><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iDFhKhIeXo" target="_blank">John Deere Commercial</a><br /><br />Especially the guy who says, "That yellow seat is my favorite chair." &nbsp;Yeah, right! &nbsp;If that's the truth this guy is nuts!<br /><br />I'm a big fan of John Deere. &nbsp;I love <a href="http://sharminj.blogspot.com/2011/04/i-have-conquered-beast.html" target="_blank">The Beast</a>&nbsp;(I wrote about it a couple of years ago) of a mower we have, but "perfectly level fresh cut grass" is not something achievable in our yard, probably because we don't have a "perfectly level" yard! &nbsp;I managed to master the art of our zero-turn John Deere mower and can use it really well….if you don't count the sacrifice of 2 baby oak trees and a couple of lawnmower blades.<br /><br />I may be one of those weirdos who really does enjoy mowing. (not kidding) &nbsp;The hubs works really hard, and often long hours, so I thought it would be very considerate of me to mow the yard. (now I'm thinking homemade cinnamon rolls would have been a better idea!) <br /><br />I started this chore 2 days ago. &nbsp;It was hot, it was dusty, but I was determined. &nbsp;Our "yard" is only about 4 acres. &nbsp;We live in north central Arkansas. &nbsp;We have a bumper crop of rocks…and dirt. &nbsp;We live in grow zone 7, which means weeds flourish. (ragweed, fescue, Johnson grass, lespedeza (sp?), crab grass, orchard grass, rye grass, along with several allergen laden green things (those are really more weeds than grass), and the sprinkling of Bermuda grass we are desperately trying to encourage.<br /><br />I have almost decided there are tiny creatures living in the grass who do not want their homes disturbed so they are sabotaging all my attempts at "perfectly level fresh cut grass". &nbsp;I mowed the front yard with minimal trouble (if you don't count rocks, mole hills, tree roots, and ruts that came from somewhere unbeknownst to me)….then I ran out of gas. (Thankfully, the oldest boy had filled the gas can so that was only a minor setback.) &nbsp;<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CEA4JvhJ-DY/U4YwGPNZmEI/AAAAAAAABFY/7uL2AmzBQQ0/s1600/photo+2-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CEA4JvhJ-DY/U4YwGPNZmEI/AAAAAAAABFY/7uL2AmzBQQ0/s1600/photo+2-2.JPG" height="200" width="149" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">half the front yard</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P35U-eMUuCo/U4YwFKpoH4I/AAAAAAAABFU/zPVvqTV2mMQ/s1600/photo+3-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P35U-eMUuCo/U4YwFKpoH4I/AAAAAAAABFU/zPVvqTV2mMQ/s1600/photo+3-2.JPG" height="200" width="149" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">looking to the side</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>Mower refilled, and I was once again rocking along listening to my iPod to drown out the sounds of rocks and mower blades colliding, then it happened….a terrible noise heard above the music in my ears. &nbsp;In the split second it took to hear the sound, I also realized the ratchet strap which had been on the mower deck at my feet was no longer there. &nbsp;Yep, it had bounced off and was now thouroughly entwined around the mower blades. &nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Being the problem solver I am, I stopped the blades, turned the mower toward the house, parked it in the garage, and came in to take a shower. &nbsp;Hubs wasn't really thrilled with me when he got home, but he calmly cut the strap (which he uses (used) to hold the sprayer tank onto the four wheeler), and, I'm sure, silently thanked God I hadn't really torn the thing up. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>The majority of the yard, however, remained uncut.</div><div><br /></div><div>Today, since school is out and I'm a stay-home-mom for the summer, I decided to finish. &nbsp;I probably should have prayed for rain. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>My first problem was the sneezing fit which occurred approximately 8 minutes (or 2 iPod songs) into my chore. &nbsp;(It's difficult to sing along with Little Big Town while you're sneezing!) &nbsp;As if the sneezes weren't enough, the problem was compounded by the fact that I am 47, have given birth to 3 children, and had a hysterectomy (some of you ladies will understand…things happen when you sneeze, cough, or laugh vigorously. &nbsp;(TMI?) &nbsp; A short bathroom break followed.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once again enthroned on the yellow seat, I began the rough terrain of the side yard. &nbsp;There is one particular area with ruts deep enough it might be a safer alternative to a tornado shelter than the basement. (okay, that might be a slight exaggeration, but a tractor did get stuck there last year) &nbsp;Still sneezing, and bouncing, and doing my best to avoid the dead briars, still clinging to the fence like the guardian hedge in Sleeping Beauty, I continued….for a couple of minutes. &nbsp;Yep, the mower ran out of gas, again, but this time, the big gas can had less than a pint in it, just enough to get the Beast started and moved to the garage. &nbsp;The only explanation I have for running out of gas this quickly is, either someone has been joyriding on the lawn mower, or grass fairies (who don't want their homes disturbed) are siphoning gas from the mower as we sleep. (I'm leaning toward #2).<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qagSePKlZGw/U4Y9QMLJ6sI/AAAAAAAABFs/-7Uy3rbu3cQ/s1600/photo-17.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qagSePKlZGw/U4Y9QMLJ6sI/AAAAAAAABFs/-7Uy3rbu3cQ/s1600/photo-17.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>&nbsp;</div><div>I could make a trip into town, fill the gas can, and continue the job, but my itchy, watery eyes don't want to, and after 2 Benedryl caplets and a shower, I've decided a nap sounds much better. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Oh, that just for the record, that yellow seat in the NOT my favorite chair….the soft club chair (with the matching ottoman) in which the posterior end of my anatomy currently rests in my favorite chair. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Sorry John Deere!</div>Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-56278400378755865632014-05-24T15:40:00.001-05:002014-05-24T15:40:36.527-05:00It's over….…School, that is. &nbsp;Friday, May 23rd wrapped up the 2013-2014 school year. &nbsp;I'm ready for summer break. &nbsp;I need some rest.<br /><br />My plan was to have everything "summerized" by Friday afternoon, but it didn't happen.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dMJ2Kt5AiFI/U4EBloAkfGI/AAAAAAAABE8/ykoh6Ji0nqU/s1600/Desk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dMJ2Kt5AiFI/U4EBloAkfGI/AAAAAAAABE8/ykoh6Ji0nqU/s1600/Desk.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div><br />Plans change sometimes, and this was my desk/classroom just before I left earlier than intended, so another day next week and I'll be good….I can get more finished when I'm by myself, anyway.<br /><br />It's been a tough year. &nbsp;I'm exhausted. &nbsp;The last semester has been filled with more frustration that I've experienced in a long time. &nbsp;It's very difficult for me to deal with people (kids) who have no respect for property or people. &nbsp;I have to remind myself they are just kids, they are immature, and who knows what other issues they're dealing with at home. <br /><br />This summer I will pray for them. &nbsp;I will pray they are blessed, and happy, and healthy. &nbsp;I will pray that, in spite of myself and my sometimes really cruddy attitude, that I will go into the new school year with God's light inside me. &nbsp;I pray that I will be an example to show Him.Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-90427868206366505612014-05-20T18:48:00.003-05:002014-05-20T18:48:35.837-05:00How about a praise?A few weeks ago I blogged about a sweet girl from our church, Charolete, who was battling cancer.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NORqwNF0UYA/U3vmvyWcYcI/AAAAAAAABEU/9tnVAy9aPoI/s1600/Charolete.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NORqwNF0UYA/U3vmvyWcYcI/AAAAAAAABEU/9tnVAy9aPoI/s1600/Charolete.jpg" height="320" width="192" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wish I could be this gorgeous with no hair! &nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table>Please note that I said WAS battling cancer. &nbsp;Though I'm 2 or 3 weeks behind posting in on here, Charolete finally got the news that she has, once again, kicked cancer's tail. &nbsp;Her last doctor visit shows that she is now CANCER FREE! &nbsp;(can I get an amen?!!) &nbsp;Throughout her ordeal, she always had that smile on her face, even on days you knew she probably didn't feel like smiling. &nbsp;She is such an example of faithfulness.<br /><br />Now, I ask you to pray for another friend, Racheal. &nbsp;She, too, is currently in the same fight, but her faith has never wavered (at least not that we can see). &nbsp;I truly believe that God is going to heal her body and remove this hateful disease so Racheal can enjoy her family. &nbsp;She is an inspiration, though she would probably try to disagree. &nbsp;I admire Racheal and the faith she and husband, Jamie, exhibit. &nbsp;Ever faithful.<br />Please join me in praying for victory over cancer for Racheal. <br /><br />"For we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." &nbsp;Romans 8:28<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_geu1UFH4-w/U3vm3QUnfYI/AAAAAAAABEo/POZ6Pk4d-mw/s1600/Racheal_family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_geu1UFH4-w/U3vm3QUnfYI/AAAAAAAABEo/POZ6Pk4d-mw/s1600/Racheal_family.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I swiped this from Racheal's Facebook….I hope she doesn't care!&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I believe that God is still in the business of miracles. &nbsp;We won't always see them, but He knows all things. &nbsp;I also believe all things…even the bad stuff…happens for a purpose and He can use our trials and valleys in a great and mighty way.<br /><br />I know this. &nbsp;I have seen it in my own life and in the lives of friends. &nbsp;(maybe sharing their stories is something I should consider) &nbsp; He will never leave us or forsake us. &nbsp;He promised. &nbsp;He NEVER breaks a promise.<br /><br />On days when you wonder if the sun will ever shine again, don't give up. &nbsp;Hope in the Lord is a gift from heaven…a gift from Him. &nbsp;Cling tightly to hope no matter the circumstance.Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-61078807973886642332014-05-06T17:04:00.003-05:002014-05-06T20:15:55.879-05:00Counting down…..<div class="MsoNormal">This is it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>This is the long-awaited week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>The week that seemed an eternity away when school began in August.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Thursday night at 8pm he will walk across the gym floor and accept his high school diploma.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>Time has flown by at light speed.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lk1AMZELakM/U2lX0owmjvI/AAAAAAAABDU/TUOS4sCLZ5A/s1600/Austin9_sb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lk1AMZELakM/U2lX0owmjvI/AAAAAAAABDU/TUOS4sCLZ5A/s1600/Austin9_sb.jpg" height="320" width="211" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It’s difficult for me to wrap my head around the idea that my little boy (now 6’ 2” at 17) will graduate high school in 2 days.&nbsp;&nbsp;It will seem even more surreal when we show up on Friday at the Mountain Home campus of Arkansas State University and register him for classes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcFh7fOSn8k/U2lYc5iPmWI/AAAAAAAABDk/ZsaV_-qb4W0/s1600/Austin_Srslide1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcFh7fOSn8k/U2lYc5iPmWI/AAAAAAAABDk/ZsaV_-qb4W0/s1600/Austin_Srslide1.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Austin &amp; "Red" at the North Central Arkansas District Fair.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nMWR_XcNRtc/U2lYkFTFtbI/AAAAAAAABDs/8e3CEeYkfVM/s1600/ViolaFFA.jpg" height="400" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">National FFA Convention in Louisville, KY…He's the head above everyone in the second row.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;">He’s my laid-back kid.</span><span style="text-align: start;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="text-align: start;">He doesn’t get excited easily.</span><span style="text-align: start;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="text-align: start;">He is the one with the quick wit and dry sense of humor.</span><span style="text-align: start;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="text-align: start;">He’s an outdoorsman and usually has a gun or fishing rod in his truck.</span><span style="text-align: start;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="text-align: start;">He likes the farm and has no desire to live in the city.</span><span style="text-align: start;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="text-align: start;">He’s a country boy.</span><span style="text-align: start;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="text-align: start;">Mud doesn’t bother him (just look at his truck after the rain).</span><span style="text-align: start;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="text-align: start;">&nbsp;</span><span style="text-align: start;">He’s always been the one who wasn’t embarrassed to hug his mamma in front of his friends.</span><span style="text-align: start;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="text-align: start;">He’s kind hearted.</span><span style="text-align: start;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="text-align: start;">He’s a hard worker.</span><span style="text-align: start;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="text-align: start;">He knows Christ.</span><span style="text-align: start;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bm6HVnY648w/U2lYGHU_t2I/AAAAAAAABDg/a52lLjl4ogM/s1600/Austinbaby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bm6HVnY648w/U2lYGHU_t2I/AAAAAAAABDg/a52lLjl4ogM/s1600/Austinbaby.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Around 18 months…he loved the camo overalls.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />His dad and I are proud of him.&nbsp;&nbsp;That little tow-haired, active boy, who was fiercely protective of his mamma, (ask Lance about that) is now a man.&nbsp;&nbsp;He will be 18 in July.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal">He is planning to pursue a degree in Agri Business.&nbsp;&nbsp;I always knew he would do something with animals, or land, or farming.&nbsp;&nbsp;I pray that we have prepared him to step out into the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;I pray for his present and for his future.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I pray for him to be a man of God. &nbsp;</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y9tNaH-LDiU/U2lY1qsv_eI/AAAAAAAABD0/mqbCGIGpF4c/s1600/Austin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y9tNaH-LDiU/U2lY1qsv_eI/AAAAAAAABD0/mqbCGIGpF4c/s1600/Austin.jpg" height="320" width="192" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5j5r_gfwgZw/U2lZVSugbfI/AAAAAAAABEA/GmidntoQvQw/s1600/LittleAustin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5j5r_gfwgZw/U2lZVSugbfI/AAAAAAAABEA/GmidntoQvQw/s1600/LittleAustin.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />It seems like only yesterday he was a baby, and I blinked and he was grown.&nbsp;&nbsp;I am anxious to see what his future holds.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-08JIWtLTDrk/U2lZype9wtI/AAAAAAAABEE/plpLn9aBhlU/s1600/AustinGradAnnounce2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-08JIWtLTDrk/U2lZype9wtI/AAAAAAAABEE/plpLn9aBhlU/s1600/AustinGradAnnounce2.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Austin, I love you to the moon and back.</span><o:p></o:p></div>Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-466633437915729402014-03-16T17:39:00.000-05:002014-03-16T17:39:19.883-05:00Strength, courage, and faith.There is a beautiful young woman in our church. &nbsp;Her name is Charolete.<br /><br />She is a shining example of faith, strength, and beauty.<br /><br />She always has a smile.<br /><br />She is at church as often as she can be, even though there are days when she probably doesn't feel like sitting on a pew for an hour.<br /><br />Charolete has cancer. &nbsp;She has been battling this disease since she was 13. &nbsp;She is now in her mid 20's. (I think?) &nbsp;She is taking high doses of chemotherapy to shrink the tumors in her body.<br /><br />Her hair is gone, but it only accentuates her beautiful face. &nbsp;Today she was in the "High Profile" section of the state newspaper. &nbsp;Our pastor had a copy and recognized her, and I watched her pale skin turn bright pink. &nbsp;It was precious.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wdymyWJ6sb0/UyYnrSwTSaI/AAAAAAAABC8/F2L7kouInYk/s1600/Charolete.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wdymyWJ6sb0/UyYnrSwTSaI/AAAAAAAABC8/F2L7kouInYk/s1600/Charolete.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swiped this from a friend's Facebook page…because I didn't get a paper today.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Even in tough times, she is doing so much to help others. &nbsp;In a time when so many dealing with cancer or other serious illness struggle to disguise side effects of the chemo under wigs and scarves, &nbsp;Charolete doesn't hide it. &nbsp;It's inspiring. &nbsp;I would only hope that I would have that confidence and courage. &nbsp;She gives people hope, though she may not realize it. <br /><br />March 8th, 2014 a ball (The Hope Ball) was held in Little Rock. &nbsp;Proceeds benefitted the 20th Century Club, which is a residential type hotel that provides free nights for patients taking cancer treatments. &nbsp;Charolete starred in a promotional video. &nbsp;(link below)<br /><br /><a href="http://vimeo.com/88833377" target="_blank">HOPE BALL 2014</a><br /><br />Cancer is a terrible disease. &nbsp;It would be difficult to find someone who hasn't been touched in some way. &nbsp;Not only does it affect the patient, but friends and family as well. <br /><br />I wish I could eradicate cancer from the world, but all I can do is pray. &nbsp;Pray for Charolete, and for Racheal (another friend in our church just beginning her treatments). &nbsp;Pray for researchers, and doctors, and patients. &nbsp;Pray for hope….but at long as we have people like Charolete, it isn't difficult to hold on to hope.Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-86429320055101722642014-03-09T22:07:00.001-05:002014-03-09T22:34:51.461-05:00Let the change begin in me...<div class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“If indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts,</span><b><span style="font-family: Verdana;">&nbsp;</span></b><span style="font-family: Verdana;">and be renewed in the spirit of your mind.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Ephesians 4:21-23</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span></i></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PzfQFqY2d2A/Ux0sDCC_-4I/AAAAAAAABCs/EtzXYfpjbYE/s1600/DoublePeace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PzfQFqY2d2A/Ux0sDCC_-4I/AAAAAAAABCs/EtzXYfpjbYE/s1600/DoublePeace.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peace roses I planted in my yard to remind me of the peace that only comes from a personal relationship and fellowship with Christ Jesus.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></span><span style="font-family: Verdana;">This morning, our Sunday school lesson was from Paul’s letters to the church at Ephesus, and how he admonished them to pray for a change in themselves; focus on changing their individual hearts and minds, and God would take care of the rest.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><br />So often (preaching to myself here, too) we have the tendency to pray for God to “fix” someone else…as if we don’t need to be fixed.&nbsp;&nbsp;Often we fall into the trap that if God would just change the heart or the attitude of the other person, things would be just right.&nbsp;&nbsp;It reminds me of the old Irish curse:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><br />&nbsp;<i>&nbsp;“May those who love us, love us, and those who don’t love us, may God turn their ankles so we will know them by their limping.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</i><br /><br />Why do we have the mentality that the problems in our lives would magically disappear if God would just change the hearts of those with whom we disagree?<br /><br />Are you guilty, too?&nbsp;&nbsp;I shamefully admit that I had the same problem.<br /><br />Just over a year ago I felt like my world was crumbling at my feet.&nbsp;&nbsp;Things needed to change.&nbsp;&nbsp;I prayed for change in another person because I honestly thought that would fix the problem…until one night when God revealed that I was the problem. &nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: Verdana;">One evening, in the desperate cry to God to change the heart of another person, His voice quietly asked, “What about you?”</span><span style="font-family: Verdana;">&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: Verdana;">&nbsp;</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><br />Ouch.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sometimes the truth hurts, but it was truth I needed to hear.<br /><br />From that point my prayers changed.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rather than asking God to fix someone else, I began earnestly praying for Him to change my life so that it would be pleasing to Him. (It’s a good thing our Lord is still in the business of miracles!)&nbsp;&nbsp;In His faithfulness, God began to change my attitude and my heart.&nbsp;&nbsp;I was able to release much of the anger and bitterness that had been building up like bile in my soul, stealing my joy and delight in the Lord and in life.&nbsp;&nbsp;As God began to make changes in me, He also began to change my circumstances.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The pieces began falling up.&nbsp;&nbsp;(I was reminded of high school when we watched a 9mm film of an earthquake, then watched it backward as it rewound onto the reel, buildings lying in shattered ruins on the ground began falling up, back into place….wow, I just really dated myself with that last comment, my kids think a VCR is ancient technology.)<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">When we are miserable in our current circumstances, the real change, the change from sorrow to joy, cannot come from another.&nbsp;&nbsp;We must allow God to change US before He can change our circumstances.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">We have to let go of our “righteous indignation” (which I learned this morning is just another word for sin), admit that we are probably a major part of the problem, and allow God to work in ways we can never imagine.<br /><br />King David had to learn the same lesson:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /><i>Have mercy upon me, O God, According to Your loving kindness; According to the multitude of Your tender mercies, Blot out my transgressions.</i></span><b><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><i><o:p></o:p></i></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, And cleanse me from my sin.</span><b><span style="font-family: Verdana;">&nbsp;</span></b><span style="font-family: Verdana;">&nbsp;For I acknowledge my transgressions, And my sin&nbsp;is&nbsp;always before me.</span><b><span style="font-family: Verdana;">&nbsp;</span></b></i><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><i>Against You, You only, have I sinned, And done&nbsp;this&nbsp;evil in Your sight— That You may be found just when You speak,&nbsp;And&nbsp;blameless when You judge.&nbsp;&nbsp;Psalm 51:1-4</i><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">When we finally reach the place when we can get over ourselves, God will come in and fill the void.<br /><br />Yes, there are days when I find myself wishing that He would change the attitude of another, but He gently reminds me that I am not blameless and I never need to forget how much He has done in my life. He reminds me that I need to mind my own business and trust His judgement. &nbsp;He knows best.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><br />In my classroom I have a quote, which reads: <i>“Be the change you want to see in the world.”</i>&nbsp;&nbsp;Allow Him to be the change…after all, this world desperately needs more Jesus!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div>Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-14286044172885820252014-02-26T23:33:00.001-06:002014-02-26T23:33:52.044-06:00Jumbled thoughtsNever have I been more determined to write something worth reading, something inspired, something….profound.(?) &nbsp;I have draft after draft of what began as a good idea (at least in my head), but fell flat when it landed on paper. &nbsp;I hate that!<br /><br />Instead of locking myself in a room with my thoughts, I just placated myself with mindless television…and when I say mindless, I mean MINDLESS! &nbsp;Seriously, I'm losing faith quickly in the Discovery Channel! &nbsp;"Clash of the Ozarks"? &nbsp;Really? &nbsp;If you haven't seen this show (which aired for the first time last night) don't watch it. &nbsp;I think my IQ dropped during the course of the show. &nbsp;Why did I watch it? &nbsp;There's a very good reason, it was filmed 40 miles from me in Hardy, AR. &nbsp;Chris (the hubby) grew up very near there (and his parents still live about 10 miles away from there), but never heard of the big feud between the two families. &nbsp;I have yet to find anyone who has. &nbsp;What saddens me most is the fact that Discovery had to search long and hard to find the most toothless people available! &nbsp;I'm a native Arkansas, I don't drink moonshine, I have a penchant for shoes, and I still have all my teeth! &nbsp;How about a show that really digs into the seedy side of Hardy, AR….you know, the place filled with antique shops and retirees! (although there is a tattoo parlor and a store named "Goths R Us"…though I haven't browsed their merchandise.)<br /><br />I guess it's all about the image you project. &nbsp;People really do believe what they see. &nbsp;Your words can say one thing, but you actions and image speak volumes. &nbsp;Today has been a very classic example of just that. &nbsp;Today someone told me, "I'm a good person, I really care about people" then turned right around and told the sweet little girlfriend she's stupid (repeatedly) and to just shut up. &nbsp;Good person? I hope that isn't the true definition of a good person because I would really hate to see the bad one! <br />As you can imagine, a long tirade from me about showing respect ensued. &nbsp;I don't think it sank in because the response directed toward me was disrespectful (from a high school kid), too. &nbsp;This may have been the point when I may or may not have said he should be thankful he wasn't dating my daughter. &nbsp;Of course, my daughter would have knocked him out in floor long before I had to step in. Less than an hour later another student was speaking to his mother on his cell phone (in class, no less, no respect for classroom rules), using language directed toward her that infuriated me even more. &nbsp;I don't care how smart you think you are, or just how mature you think you are, you have no right to call your mother a name! (especially one that could mean the animal Jesus rode into Jerusalem on was not very smart.) &nbsp;Given the course of the days events I may or may not have told him it was a good thing I was not his mamma. &nbsp;(just think of Bill Cosby's statement "I brought you into this world, I can take you out!") &nbsp;And it was only a few minutes later when I told yet another student to do something and his reply was, "No. &nbsp;You didn't say please." &nbsp;I gave him "the look" and melted him on the spot.<br /><br />I guess today was just one of those days when I'd just had it. &nbsp;All those thoughts that you don't have time to worry about crowded in. &nbsp;I'm tired. &nbsp;I don't sleep well, but nights like this it's much worse. Why can't I just turn off the brain for a little while. &nbsp;I don't want to think. &nbsp;I don't want to worry. &nbsp;I don't want to be disappointed. &nbsp;I just want peace….and quiet….and sleep. <br /><br /><br /><br />Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-72297004399724825402014-02-24T08:48:00.001-06:002014-02-24T08:48:45.538-06:00Pray for our kidsI have first period study hall. &nbsp;I hear many conversations of events and happenings over the weekend and I am more convinced than ever that we need to pray for our youth. &nbsp;They need positive role models. &nbsp;They need to know that alcohol, drugs, promiscuity, and foul language do not lead to a happy life...both on earth and for eternity. &nbsp;<div><br></div><div>Please pray for the kids...the future of our country.</div>Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-57347866559270534872014-02-01T21:02:00.001-06:002014-02-01T21:21:15.291-06:00Don't take His beauty for granted.<div><br /></div>The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands. &nbsp;Psalm 19:1<br /><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gZ59q6CSHqY/Uu21SJ26OdI/AAAAAAAABBk/3_BQJMd27bs/s640/blogger-image--963694587.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gZ59q6CSHqY/Uu21SJ26OdI/AAAAAAAABBk/3_BQJMd27bs/s640/blogger-image--963694587.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So many times I'm in such a rush in the mornings that I forget to take time to give thanks to God, but there are some mornings when He does something so amazing that you just have to stop and soak it all in, like the sunrise on Thursday morning. &nbsp;Thank You, Lord.</div></div>Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-79529321187103854932014-01-13T21:59:00.002-06:002014-02-23T21:40:49.308-06:00Time to Fight<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ER9_l2o45qA/UtS15Q4BqRI/AAAAAAAABBY/rewaPYZOcF4/s1600/Praying-Hands-over-Bible.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ER9_l2o45qA/UtS15Q4BqRI/AAAAAAAABBY/rewaPYZOcF4/s1600/Praying-Hands-over-Bible.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />Salem First Baptist Church, Sunday, January 12, 2014:<br /><br />Elbow to elbow, crowded pews, 479 people gathered for a single purpose, to worship the I AM, Jesus, the ONE TRUE GOD. &nbsp;The sermon was powerful; God-breathed, "It's time to stand and it's time to fight! … Men, God created you with the heart of a warrior!" Words spoken with conviction and a passion that only comes through a personal relationship with God. &nbsp;It was a challenge, a directive, to the men present to stand up a be MEN. &nbsp;To fight for family and faith. &nbsp;To fight to return this country back into 'one nation UNDER GOD…'. &nbsp;To fight for the moral and family values that now seem to be looked upon with ridicule and scorn…deemed as antiquated and outdated. &nbsp;It was a challenge to the men present to once again be the spiritual head of the household. &nbsp;It was a directive straight from the holy book, the Bible. <br /><br />Though it was directed toward the men, it ignited a flame within the women as well. &nbsp;Everyone listened, even the 9 year-old on the pew next to me who usually spends his Sunday mornings drawing wolves, longhorns, and deer on the back of the Sunday bulletin. &nbsp;He asked questions on the way home. &nbsp;The 17 year-old listened. &nbsp;On the verge on manhood, he listened. &nbsp;He was moved. &nbsp;He is ready to fight.<br /><br />We are becoming a nation desensitized to the collapse of good moral values and beliefs. &nbsp;The sitcoms make the husbands out to be bumbling idiots who can't do anything right. &nbsp;What happened to "Father Knows Best"? &nbsp;I'm sure Ward Cleaver, John Walton, and Andy Taylor would be aghast at today's prime time programming. &nbsp;Yet we accept it as something we cannot change, turn a blind eye, and continue in our daily lives. &nbsp;We have traded "The Walton's" for "Modern Family", all in the name of progress. <br /><br />I was guilty of it, too. &nbsp;Yesterday a flame was ignited. &nbsp;Small and flickering, but a single spark can start an all-consuming fire. &nbsp;Yes, you will encounter opposition. &nbsp;Yes, you will be ridiculed by some, but that is what Jesus dealt with on a daily basis. <br /><br /><i>"For where two or more are gathered together in My name, there I will be also." &nbsp;Matthew 18:20</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear them from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." &nbsp;2 Chronicles 7:14</i><br /><br />It happened, the altar was full, men were kneeling in the aisles, humbled, seeking God, asking Him to heal our land. &nbsp;Return us to that ONE NATION UNDER GOD. <br /><br />To watch the sermon delivered by Brother John Hodges from Salem First Baptist Church in Salem, AR, click the following link. &nbsp;You will be blessed. &nbsp;<a href="http://new.livestream.com/accounts/1603626/SalemfirstBaptistlive/videos/39477297" target="_blank">Time To Fight. SFBC, January 12, 2014</a><br /><br />Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-64954675902735115632013-12-24T14:25:00.000-06:002013-12-24T14:25:01.722-06:00Epiphany!Occasionally I have one of those epiphanies that just make me sit back and think, "Wow!" &nbsp;Usually they occur while I'm in the midst of cleaning something and don't have access to pen and paper…which is what happened today…but this was just too good to let pass.<br /><br />Picture this, (sounds like Sophia from Golden Girls) I'm scrubbing the laundry room sink, since we no longer are giving the calf a bottle (he isn't happy about that, either) I decided it was time to get rid of the dried milk replacer and stinky calf bottle that has lived there for the last several months. <br /><br />As I reached for my mondo-sized can of Comet (you need the giant Sam's Club economy size around here) I noticed on the side 48% Mas. &nbsp;Being the exceptional Spanish student I was, I rotated the can to see if there was a translation on the other side. &nbsp;Yep, there is was 48% More. &nbsp;Mas=More. &nbsp;(I should know that from the "No mas pantalones" commercials). <br /><br />It was then the epiphany happened. &nbsp;Mas means More. &nbsp;We are now in the Christmas season, and I thought of the word Christmas…ChristMAS. &nbsp;More Christ. &nbsp;The real meaning of Christmas. <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dOe7UjtP9-o/UrntfAjLvMI/AAAAAAAABA4/voRbrhCjnUg/s1600/ChristmasCard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dOe7UjtP9-o/UrntfAjLvMI/AAAAAAAABA4/voRbrhCjnUg/s1600/ChristmasCard.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div><br />I don't know about you, but I was ChristMAS every single day. &nbsp;More Christ on a daily basis. <br /><br />Every time I see the word Mas, I want to think of having more Christ in my life. &nbsp;What about you?<br /><br /><br />Merry ChristMAS!.Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-80227100964787285022013-12-01T21:58:00.001-06:002013-12-01T21:58:33.127-06:00Praying for the harvest….<div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">He told them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. &nbsp;Ask the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest field." &nbsp;Luke 10:2</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;">Never has this passage been more true than in today's society. &nbsp;our country, the one founded upon a firm foundation rooted in Christ and christened "One nation under God", is swiftly moving away from God and godly teachings and our government is driving the truck! &nbsp; As Christians, it is our responsibility to make changes; to give God strength and power; to change the course of our nation. &nbsp;No, I don't mean by coup, or sit-in, or loud demonstration on the steps of the US Capitol building, actually, it's much more simple than that. &nbsp;Pray.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">As we enter December I plan to focus much of my time on the true meaning of Christmas and not just the commercial gifts and goodies angle. &nbsp;As the scripture states in Luke 10:2, the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. &nbsp;The lost are plentiful, they need to hear the Word, but the workers are few…. sadly, it is true.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This pamphlet was handed to me during Sunday school this morning.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PArb_scFZ3A/UpwCxsAFtpI/AAAAAAAABAo/d6EMQcZE_DU/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PArb_scFZ3A/UpwCxsAFtpI/AAAAAAAABAo/d6EMQcZE_DU/s320/image.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's a challenge to pause what you are doing at 10:02 am, pm (or both) and say a prayer for the North American missionaries and church planters. &nbsp;Can you imagine the power of prayer if thousands were praying at precisely the same time? &nbsp;Prayer changes things. &nbsp;I've set a reminder at 10:02 pm (because I have a high school speech class in the am) to pray. &nbsp;Lift the missionaries, pray for God to go before them and prepare the way.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I would also ask that you say a prayer for our quartet, 4His Praise. &nbsp;We are excited, we are ready, we are willing, but we want to certain that God goes before us and we do His will. &nbsp;His timing is perfect and we will trust him. &nbsp;Please pray that all we do be done for His service.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One more little thing, practice random acts of kindness in December, you never know what joy it will bring to someone…and to you. &nbsp;This afternoon the girls &amp; I (4His Praise) went to the home of one of our deacons who has battled cancer for several years. &nbsp;This was done very spontaneously, and it lifted his spirits and ours. &nbsp;He is now bedridden and he will most likely be celebrating Christmas in heaven this year. &nbsp;He was only strong enough to listen to 3 songs, but he summoned enough strength to tell us it meant so much to him. &nbsp;We prayed with him before we left, and he told us not to worry about him because he was going to be okay. &nbsp;His faith remains steadfast, though his body is weak. &nbsp;Pray for brother Neal and his family.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">…and pause at 10:02 to pray for revival in our country.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-7165002220586745602013-11-27T23:32:00.001-06:002013-11-27T23:32:05.643-06:00I will enter His courts with praise….Recently I have been questioning (prayerfully) where the Lord is leading me. &nbsp;Sunday night, the answer became more clear. &nbsp;Music. &nbsp;I have always loved music, even though I only play one instrument and that one not very well. &nbsp;I do not have the gift of writing beautiful lyrics that touch hearts. &nbsp;I don't even have that great a voice, but when the girls &amp; I (4 HIS Praise) sing together, I truly feel as if I'm where I'm supposed to be. &nbsp;I feel like I am walking in His will, and it brings me great joy.<div><br /></div><div>Sunday night we had the opportunity to sing at First Baptist in Flippin. &nbsp;When I invited us (yes, you read that right) to sing for them we had 2 or 3 songs planned, but had a few more ready just in case. &nbsp;It was a good decision because we were given the entire service. &nbsp;We sang for almost an hour, and it was a wonderful blessing to me. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gYibJxlBbn4/UpbQV5DOwxI/AAAAAAAABAY/EBj17m19TdI/s1600/4HisPraise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="221" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gYibJxlBbn4/UpbQV5DOwxI/AAAAAAAABAY/EBj17m19TdI/s320/4HisPraise.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kelly, Kathy, Sharmin, &amp; Pam: 4 HIS Praise<br />photo courtesy of Judy Martin…thanks, Judy, we don't have many photos!</td></tr></tbody></table><div>I've heard so many people talk about groups that have problems because egos get in the way, even in Christian and gospel groups. &nbsp;Sadly, the problem is usually because someone forgot the true reason for the music. &nbsp;That is the joy of singing with these ladies (Kelly, Kathy, &amp; Pam), we do it for one reason, not to bring glory to ourselves (though encouragement does keep us going at times), our hope is that the Lord be glorified in all that we do. &nbsp;I am human, I will make mistakes, but I am doing my best to lose the bad habits that might diminish my testimony. &nbsp; We are ready to step out on faith. &nbsp;We want to share His message through music. &nbsp;We are ready to do more. &nbsp;Lead us Lord, we will follow…. I'm so excited to see what 2014 brings!&nbsp;</div>Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-73978807210023867422013-11-22T22:50:00.001-06:002013-11-22T22:50:37.160-06:00Lead me Lord...<div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp; &nbsp; <i>&nbsp; "Lead me Lord; I will follow. &nbsp;Lead me Lord; I will go. &nbsp;</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You have called me; I will answer. &nbsp;Lead me Lord; I will go."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ws0tfO-mhx4" target="_blank">To see Elizabeth Goodine sing with the Brooklyn Tabernacle, click here</a></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xIUOrOVQW60/UpAzyiKEIhI/AAAAAAAAA_4/TsW7iNGaB10/s1600/footprints-on-a-beachin-yalong-bay-chaina-244896.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xIUOrOVQW60/UpAzyiKEIhI/AAAAAAAAA_4/TsW7iNGaB10/s1600/footprints-on-a-beachin-yalong-bay-chaina-244896.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by 1MS.net free wallpapers</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Our church was blessed with the opportunity to have Wayne and Elizabeth Goodine come conduct a choir clinic (alliteration?) a couple of weeks ago. &nbsp;They shared many songs they had written, but this one in particular really struck a chord within me. &nbsp;"Lead me Lord; I will follow..Lead me Lord, I will go…You have called me, I will answer…Lead me Lord, I will go." &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">You have called me….I have heard so many people talk about how instinctively they know what God had in mind for them. &nbsp;I'm listening, but I don't have a clear image of what God wants me to do with my life. &nbsp;I do not feel the persistent tugging of foreign missions, especially when I feel we have so many who desperately need salvation right here in the US.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I know the things that bring me great joy…could one of these things be my calling? &nbsp;I love music and I love to sing, but I don't have the gift of writing music, and I really don't think I have the voice to make people really want to listen, even though I enjoy singing with our quartet 4His Praise. &nbsp;I suppose I have a gift of speaking, at least I don't have a great fear of speaking in public, but many times the words just sound dull and stupid in my own ears. &nbsp;Then there's Art. &nbsp;I can draw, I can paint, I'm pretty good with Graphic Design, but how can I use that for His glory? &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Maybe I'm just having the same problem as Moses and Jonah as they desperately tried to change God's mind about their calling in life (though, Lord, I'd much prefer you get my attention with a burning bush rather than the innards of a great fish should it come to that point.)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Whatever it may be, I'm listening, and I am ready to follow where He leads….wherever that may be.</div>Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-89340662952634763062013-10-01T20:49:00.001-05:002013-10-01T20:49:06.098-05:00Learning to trust...October 12th is our church's annual Women's Conference. &nbsp;As in years past we will have great music, food, fellowship, and inspiring speaker, but this year I will also issue a challenge to women present to record their journey to the LORD by leaving a Faith Legacy. &nbsp;This is something that has been on my heart for a very long time and I hope that it will continue to grow. &nbsp;I am at a point where I feel like I need to do more. &nbsp;I don't feel like I'm being called into a foreign mission field, but I do have such a burden for women and women's ministry. &nbsp;I pray for the Lord's guidance and that all I do will be in His will and will bring Him honor and glory. &nbsp;<div><br /></div><div>I will do my best to post the info I'm working on for the conference on here, but it won't be until after October 12th, but here's a peek at the "logo" I'm planning on using. &nbsp;To combine my love of writing, design, and photography has always been a dream. &nbsp;I hope God can use me and the gifts He has given me, and that His message will spread like wildfire through a world that desperately needs the LORD!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-crWWoxjrgvc/Ukt7TXsHRuI/AAAAAAAAA_g/Vk83ZOBgLZA/s1600/FaithLegacy2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-crWWoxjrgvc/Ukt7TXsHRuI/AAAAAAAAA_g/Vk83ZOBgLZA/s320/FaithLegacy2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-71995554032078647762013-06-24T23:15:00.000-05:002013-06-24T23:15:30.267-05:009 Years . . . My baby had his 9th birthday yesterday (6-23). &nbsp;Time has flown by so quickly. &nbsp;I got a little teary-eyed looking through some old pictures and seeing those big blue eyes, chubby cheeks, and chunky little legs. &nbsp;Now he's a blue-eyed, lanky, baseball playing boy! <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jk7VLMB_ZAE/UckP_V6zysI/AAAAAAAAA-M/3eCTc7JEUZw/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jk7VLMB_ZAE/UckP_V6zysI/AAAAAAAAA-M/3eCTc7JEUZw/s320/1.jpg" width="223" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3 days new. &nbsp;8 lbs, 5 oz, 20 inches. &nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp;Not only is it Logan who has grown up so much, but look at this picture with Austin! &nbsp;He was 8 (okay probably just a week or 2 away from being 9). &nbsp;His birthday is July 30, that should give me plenty of time to find some good pictures of him!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4RpPNUavtzk/UckQIXUhpzI/AAAAAAAAA-U/As1Wqgt83NI/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4RpPNUavtzk/UckQIXUhpzI/AAAAAAAAA-U/As1Wqgt83NI/s320/3.jpg" width="216" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Austin-age 9, Logan -around 2-3 weeks. &nbsp;L rolled over at 4 weeks.</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp;He was a happy baby, and had (has) a smile that would light up the room. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--QEY7uTOa3A/UckQUn4vLMI/AAAAAAAAA-c/wNZgofAH6GM/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--QEY7uTOa3A/UckQUn4vLMI/AAAAAAAAA-c/wNZgofAH6GM/s320/4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can tell by all the drool some little teeth were just coming in.</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp;Always the "outdoor-type" kid. &nbsp;He loves to be outside, especially now since we got the pool set up!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-67088spvB88/UckQ0dred3I/AAAAAAAAA-k/bTfP_JLYiPw/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-67088spvB88/UckQ0dred3I/AAAAAAAAA-k/bTfP_JLYiPw/s320/5.jpg" width="231" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Age 2</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp;He loves baseball, and is one of the biggest St. Louis Cardinals fans I know. &nbsp;This was his 2nd year of playing catcher, and he loves it. &nbsp;On the way home one afternoon he looked at me and said, "I think you should just call me Yadi (Yadier Molina, Cardinals' catcher). &nbsp;He cracks me up! &nbsp;Just to set the record straight, though, Matt Holliday is his favorite player. &nbsp;He has a t-shirt and a jersey with Holliday on them. &nbsp;We are hoping to take the boys to a game in St. Louis before school starts. (I'm as excited as they are, I love the Cards!)<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SIXPEKOQ8zg/UckT_mUwO-I/AAAAAAAAA_E/TDpIjubHfmU/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SIXPEKOQ8zg/UckT_mUwO-I/AAAAAAAAA_E/TDpIjubHfmU/s320/8.jpg" width="211" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So serious</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gl5TA35vLOA/UckTiZGxY2I/AAAAAAAAA-0/F2RaFNjvleM/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gl5TA35vLOA/UckTiZGxY2I/AAAAAAAAA-0/F2RaFNjvleM/s320/11.jpg" width="211" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So not serious. &nbsp;Check out the cake, found that in Pinterest. &nbsp;the kids were running around saying, "We ate a base!"</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rp_bFUWBcu8/UckT3pJqezI/AAAAAAAAA-8/80J57KAN-kM/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rp_bFUWBcu8/UckT3pJqezI/AAAAAAAAA-8/80J57KAN-kM/s320/12.jpg" width="211" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Officially a 9 year old!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></td></tr></tbody></table>Saturday we had his birthday party. &nbsp;He had a few friends over and Chris's family joined us. &nbsp;We had a good time, and the kid had fun. &nbsp;Our intent was to have a "kid" party then another "family" party, but after the last game of the tournament L was invited to play a practice game for the Tri-County Allstars baseball team on Sunday (which was his actual birthday) so we combined the parties. &nbsp;After the games were over on Sunday the coach told us he wanted Logan to play on the team and would need a copy of L's birth certificate and health insurance card. &nbsp;Quite a birthday present! &nbsp;The next 3 weekends will be filled with Babe Ruth League baseball tournaments. &nbsp;It will be busy, but lots of fun. &nbsp;I did learn a lesson from the games Sunday (doubleheader), PACK SUNSCREEN! &nbsp;My legs were a little pink, but they're tan today, I'm afraid I won't be so lucky the next time.<div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-88602436825064353422013-06-17T22:27:00.001-05:002013-06-17T22:27:21.655-05:00Sometimes He stops us in our tracks...I was driving down the road listening to The Message radio station on XM Radio and a new song by Chris August came on. &nbsp;By the time he got to the chorus I was in tears. &nbsp; Music is one of the most effective (to me) ministries, and this song just left me speechless.....kind of like the first time I heard "Praise You In This Storm" by Casting Crowns. &nbsp;I am amazed by the power of God. &nbsp;Please take the time to listen to the song by clicking the link below.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECGZz5ScfL8" target="_blank">Restore by Chris August</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-9915933830598244792013-06-05T13:19:00.001-05:002013-06-05T13:19:31.245-05:00Thankful<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm guilty of it. &nbsp;I allow life to distract me and forget to see the beauty around me everyday. &nbsp;I forget to be thankful. &nbsp;Sometimes the little things we overlook can bring so much happiness. &nbsp;Sometimes we need to see the world through fresh eyes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The view from a friend's cabin. &nbsp;We live in a beautiful place.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_vO8K6hXYIY/Ua92h4BWLeI/AAAAAAAAA8k/e9Q1TiXFkqQ/s1600/DSC_0910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_vO8K6hXYIY/Ua92h4BWLeI/AAAAAAAAA8k/e9Q1TiXFkqQ/s320/DSC_0910.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />Father and son working together. &nbsp;The little red heifer in the squeeze chute is a show cow, the little donkey on the left is her trainer. &nbsp;Just like most trainers, Red does NOT like him. &nbsp;She will eventually learn to lead...with his help, but the process is not fun...for her.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DeUTRzSG3TE/Ua9xPyG2eSI/AAAAAAAAA74/QBbFgQ4OJ8g/s1600/DSC_0914.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DeUTRzSG3TE/Ua9xPyG2eSI/AAAAAAAAA74/QBbFgQ4OJ8g/s320/DSC_0914.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />Sometimes you just need to roll around in dirt to scratch that pesky itch.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zWWMbR9N4XY/Ua9yFzeUAYI/AAAAAAAAA8A/y_HKfqXabRo/s1600/DSC_0917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zWWMbR9N4XY/Ua9yFzeUAYI/AAAAAAAAA8A/y_HKfqXabRo/s320/DSC_0917.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />The joys of a bicycle on a summer afternoon.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qAftBPp46Tk/Ua91cW8lgtI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/5ey5-hZKKIM/s1600/DSC_0921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qAftBPp46Tk/Ua91cW8lgtI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/5ey5-hZKKIM/s320/DSC_0921.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br />Riding down a country road (from the barn to the house).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g9WunBh0_bU/Ua91Lli-ftI/AAAAAAAAA8Q/9Ns58L4W1kI/s1600/DSC_0922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g9WunBh0_bU/Ua91Lli-ftI/AAAAAAAAA8Q/9Ns58L4W1kI/s320/DSC_0922.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />Round bales make a fun jungle gym.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K7Td0H5C0_4/Ua94EC7r9oI/AAAAAAAAA9A/g0l0_BhXzHc/s1600/DSC_0930.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K7Td0H5C0_4/Ua94EC7r9oI/AAAAAAAAA9A/g0l0_BhXzHc/s320/DSC_0930.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />Shooter (the puppy) wanted to get in on the hay bale action, too. &nbsp;It took him a few tries, but he finally made it to the top.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q_qu41ND49g/Ua94AybwW-I/AAAAAAAAA84/cTUlAE28Ty0/s1600/DSC_0936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q_qu41ND49g/Ua94AybwW-I/AAAAAAAAA84/cTUlAE28Ty0/s320/DSC_0936.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />Victory! &nbsp;He made it to his boy.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TukzxtXZ_cc/Ua93wwWDEAI/AAAAAAAAA8w/zpVfeZaES0Q/s1600/DSC_0937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TukzxtXZ_cc/Ua93wwWDEAI/AAAAAAAAA8w/zpVfeZaES0Q/s320/DSC_0937.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />Hi, mamma, are you proud of me?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fNjX6P_ZjSA/Ua9526w0X9I/AAAAAAAAA9M/SCwQM6V36qo/s1600/DSC_0941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fNjX6P_ZjSA/Ua9526w0X9I/AAAAAAAAA9M/SCwQM6V36qo/s320/DSC_0941.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />Hide &amp; seek in the hay.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2nPfhwnosCo/Ua96Geu1QaI/AAAAAAAAA9U/bnEOlP_01n0/s1600/DSC_0945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2nPfhwnosCo/Ua96Geu1QaI/AAAAAAAAA9U/bnEOlP_01n0/s320/DSC_0945.JPG" width="212" /></a></div><br /><br />..and one more trip to the top. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ClMRS-BjM7w/Ua96qpb3eCI/AAAAAAAAA9c/nK8kf0LHFjE/s1600/DSC_0948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ClMRS-BjM7w/Ua96qpb3eCI/AAAAAAAAA9c/nK8kf0LHFjE/s320/DSC_0948.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Just look around you. &nbsp;No matter if you're in the country, like us, or the big city, there are blessings all around. &nbsp;Make the choice to be happy and see the beauty in details of everyday life.Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-38831160446107126492013-05-21T22:05:00.003-05:002013-05-21T22:05:50.159-05:00...and we are told we cannot pray in school.<br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">(All photos used in this post were taken from Goole images and various news media.)</span><br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FJDcBlwFsO0/UZwsyZG6bbI/AAAAAAAAA58/jJEwk0ZE9jc/s1600/Moore+tornado.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FJDcBlwFsO0/UZwsyZG6bbI/AAAAAAAAA58/jJEwk0ZE9jc/s1600/Moore+tornado.jpg" /></a></div><br />Massive devastation. &nbsp;Scenes flash across the screen that bring tears to our eyes. &nbsp;Oklahoma is dealing with so much heartache and pain, my own trials seem so small in comparison. &nbsp;How do you comfort parents whose lives have been marred by grief? &nbsp; How quickly so many lives changed in Moore, Oklahoma. &nbsp;In a few short minutes, everything was lost.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7brnodBhN_U/UZwsymJhPDI/AAAAAAAAA6E/hYmVM64I57U/s1600/Moore+tornado2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7brnodBhN_U/UZwsymJhPDI/AAAAAAAAA6E/hYmVM64I57U/s1600/Moore+tornado2.jpg" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;The very place so many children feel safe is now gone.&nbsp;How will they ever feel safe in school again? &nbsp;Will they panic at the sight of a dark cloud? <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7XcXUuvhKyk/UZwsyrYuOqI/AAAAAAAAA6A/TYvSnrZsQVk/s1600/Moore+tornado3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7XcXUuvhKyk/UZwsyrYuOqI/AAAAAAAAA6A/TYvSnrZsQVk/s1600/Moore+tornado3.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>How do you pick up the pieces when the pieces are barely recognizable? &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>So many people are asking the question, where was God when all this happened? &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>He was there. &nbsp;He was with 6th grade teacher Rhonda Crosswhite in that school bathroom when she prayed, "God, take care of my kids." &nbsp;He was there in a daycare center with a teacher who told her 3 year-olds, "We're going to hide in here, and we're going to hear a train, but when the train is gone we will get out and find your parents." &nbsp;He was with the elderly lady hiding in her bathroom with her dog who disappeared from her arms when the storm hit, but was miraculously found alive under the rubble as she was interviewed by a television reporter. &nbsp;Even though her house was a pile of rubble, she said, "I thought God had answered only 1 prayer, to let me live, but He answered them both. &nbsp;I have my baby back." &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>The news channels are flooded with stories of heroic teachers who shielded their students from debris with their own bodies. &nbsp;Teachers who placed themselves in more danger to save the lives of children. &nbsp;Why? &nbsp;Because when they walk through those school doors they're our kids. &nbsp;We (teachers) may not have given birth to each and every one, but they're ours, and we will do what we have to do to protect them. &nbsp;We pray for them. &nbsp;We love them. &nbsp;We care what happens to them outside the hours from 7:53 to 3:08. &nbsp;They're our kids, too. &nbsp; Protecting those children was second nature to those teachers. &nbsp;We would risk our own lives to save our kids. &nbsp;I hope all parents realize this. &nbsp;I hope they will understand and choose to work with the teachers rather than against us. &nbsp;I hope they understand we love those kids, too.</div><div><br /></div><div>Words aren't sufficient to express my sorrow for the families and victims of the Moore, OK tornado. &nbsp;I cry for those lost, I cry for those who survive, and I pray for them all. &nbsp; &nbsp;</div>Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-60954794079558778112013-04-08T21:45:00.002-05:002013-04-08T21:45:22.355-05:00Tonight I'm angry!Don't worry, my family is off the hook tonight, but I am angry with some people I really don't know very well. I want to scream and yell at them. &nbsp;I want them to open their eyes and see what I see. &nbsp;Why can't they see past their own selfish noses? &nbsp;Why am I so angry? &nbsp;Because they are watching a precious girl die slowly before their eyes of a terrible disease and refuse to do anything about it! &nbsp;She is fading away and they choose to ignore it hoping it will fix itself. &nbsp;She is fighting a disease! &nbsp;The disease is Anorexia. &nbsp;Yes, it IS a disease! &nbsp;What really infuriates me is they are saying, "Just ignore her, she's just doing it for attention!" &nbsp;Wake up, people! &nbsp;If she wanted to direct attention to the fact that she is nothing but skin and bones then why would she be wearing 2 pairs of pants?!? &nbsp;Yes, I patted her leg, and under the baggy windsuit pants she was wearing another pair, all to make her look heavier than she is.... around 100 lbs on a &nbsp;5'8" frame! <br /><br />This girl needs our prayers, and so does her family who are living so comfortably in denial that they should change their names to Cleopatra! &nbsp;I don't know how they can look at her and think she's okay. &nbsp;She desperately needs help. &nbsp;Their solution, just pray harder, you just don't have enough faith. &nbsp;I'm sorry, but when your brain is starving, and your body is starving, faith is difficult to muster. &nbsp;I believe in faith. &nbsp;I believe God can heal any problem, but I also believe He places people in our paths to help us along the way. &nbsp;Mentors. &nbsp;Cheerleaders. &nbsp;Help. &nbsp;What if the disease were cancer? &nbsp;Would you tell a cancer patient, "you just need to pray harder for a cure" or would you encourage them to seek treatment? &nbsp;Yeah, that's what I thought. &nbsp;Yes, it is a disease. &nbsp;However, so many people are denied treatment or talked out of treatment because loved ones pass it off as "just wanting attention". &nbsp;SERIOUSLY? <br /><br />God saved a dear friend from anorexia, but she had help, therapy. &nbsp;At the time she didn't know why. &nbsp;I told her there was a reason God allowed her to go through all she did, now we know. &nbsp;She is working so hard to save this girl. &nbsp;She can answer questions those of us who have never had the disease can't. &nbsp;She's giving of herself to help. &nbsp;This sweet girl has a small group of people around her who support her and want her to seek the treatment, professional treatment, to get well. &nbsp;I am praying. &nbsp;All I can do is desperately cry out to God, "Please, LORD, save this girl!" &nbsp;Please pray for her. &nbsp;God knows her name. &nbsp;He sees her struggles. &nbsp;He knows her pain. &nbsp;He knows where she needs to be to get the help she needs. She is one of His. &nbsp;Her life is important.<br /><br />There are so many around you who may be struggling but have no voice. &nbsp;Give them a voice. &nbsp;Be an ear to listen, a shoulder to cry on, or a sounding board for their frustrations. &nbsp;If you choose not to talk about a situation, regardless of what it is, you are telling the person who is in so much emotional pain that you don't care. Their life isn't worth your time. &nbsp;Is that who you really are? &nbsp;Is that how you want to be perceived? &nbsp;I don't. &nbsp;I care. &nbsp;Please pray for her....and for others who need prayers.<br /><br />Lord, help me not be angry with these people, and Lord, please help them understand. &nbsp;We all need Your wisdom.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15825929.post-79770086072242812152013-04-07T22:12:00.000-05:002013-04-07T22:12:08.390-05:00Silence. . . . . . while it may appear I've neglected my blog (okay, so I have neglected my blog) that doesn't mean I haven't been writing. &nbsp;In fact, I've been writing furiously over the last three + weeks, however, most of it will never be published on my little slice of the information superhighway because it has been tough. &nbsp;I've had three physically and emotionally challenging weeks. <br /><br />I have searched my Bible for answers for why we have to go through hardships. &nbsp;I know why, He is preparing us to be used for His glory. &nbsp;More on that later, though. &nbsp;I'm still writing that one and will post it as soon as I finish it.<br /><br />I've also been trying to revamp the look of this blog. &nbsp;I will be making a few changes over the next week or so (if I have time) to help improve the looks, and hopefully, add a subscribe button so you can be updated as soon as I add a new post. &nbsp;I don't want my readers (all 4 of your) to miss anything! :)<br /><br />I'm also doing Ann Voskamp's &nbsp;Joy Dare Challenge and searching for 3 things to be thankful for. &nbsp;You can find out more about that <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/joy-dares/" target="_blank">here</a>. &nbsp;I highly recommend it. &nbsp;I am making a conscious effort to be happy. There are days when I struggle and days when I just want to give up and wallow in self-pity, but I don't like to do that. &nbsp;I would much rather be happy.<br /><br />.... and speaking of happy, there's a 16 year-old boy who lives in this house (he calls me mom and can't clean up his room for anything!) who is on happy cloud nine right now. &nbsp;Why? &nbsp;I can give you one reason, a 1996 red short-wheelbased Chevy 4x4. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bNPzUCqAmvE/UWI04iLSXLI/AAAAAAAAA5g/sPFDrv--68s/s1600/DSC_0211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bNPzUCqAmvE/UWI04iLSXLI/AAAAAAAAA5g/sPFDrv--68s/s320/DSC_0211.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Seeing his joy has put a smile on my face all weekend...not to mention I get chauffeured around (he won't let me drive it!) &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That's all for tonight, but check back in a few days, maybe I'll have this blog spiffed up and have something worth reading.&nbsp;</div>Sharminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07766242177753786807noreply@blogger.com2